First practice for the British GP got off to a slow and damp start. Half the field completed less than 10 laps, with Kamui Kobayashi doing the most work - circling just 19 times. The damp weather meant lap times were even less meaningful than normal, and it was a tough ask for the three Friday drivers.

Dani Clos finished 20th for HRT, Valtteri Bottas was in again at Williams and ended up 13th - two places above Pastor Maldonado. Meanwhile, Jules Bianchi was in the Force India but completed just the one installation lap. Romain Grosjean led the session, ahead of Daniel Ricciardo and Lewis Hamilton.

Second practice was no better than the first. Lewis Hamilton was the fastest driver, with Kamui Kobayashi second and Michael Schumacher third. Those struggling included Bruno Senna, who crashed into the barriers backwards and caused a red flag. Fernando Alonso also found the tyre barriers with his front wing, but only after the session had drawn to a close. Those not setting a time included Grosjean, Ricciardo, Webber and De la Rosa.